Is a Restraining Order Needed?

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Domestic Violence Restraining Orders can be an important part of a plan to protect a person, his or her children, or other people who live with him or her.

The person seeking protection will not have to pay a filing fee to get a Domestic Violence Restraining Order from the court.

It can be hard, though, to decide if, or when, to ask a judge for a Restraining Order. If you aren't sure whether you want to end your relationship or get back together with the person you want to be restrained, you should be aware that while the Restraining Order is in effect, you must be prepared to not see or talk to that person.

Consider talking with the staff at a domestic violence shelter or hotline. For more information and resources, click here.

Sometimes, when you decide to get a restraining order, move out, or get help, the other person might try to make you stay by hurting or scaring you. This is why safety plans are so important. For more information about safety plans, click here.

To read an information sheet called "Can a DVRO Help Me?" (DV-500-INFO) in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean or Vietnamese, click on the language you need: